Design and analysis of triboelectric energy harvester with an application in self-powered smart mask

Abstract

The epidemiological information concerning novel corona virus (SARS-Cov-2) seeks attention nowadays to get an overview of global as well as country-based cases and deaths so far. The utilization of face mask has become evident for the protective measure of mankind to filter out the infiltrating virus from outside. In this paper, we have analysed various triboelectric based energy harvester configurations focusing on its application in self-powered smart mask design to combat SARS-Cov-2. Smart mask will comprise of triboelectric nanogenerator (TENG) and a smart layer to execute electrocution of the infiltrating virus as well as ensure the safety of human being (I < 10 mA). The theoretical investigations and simulation studies are carried out for different triboelectric materials and a comparative analysis is also portrayed in the context of designing self-powered smart mask under different operating modes. It has been observed that polypropylene-poly methyl methacrylate (PP-PMMA) material combination produces an electrical field of 0.9916 MV/m which is sufficient to electrocute the virus without causing harm to human body. Hence the design and comprehensive analysis is carried out considering PP-PMMA combination for various possible modes of operation like constant velocity, constant acceleration, sinusoidal and generic one. Here, respiration is considered as major mechanical input source for TENG whereas other biomechanical activities like talking, chewing are also discussed in the context of self-powered application of smart mask. It has been demonstrated that the physiological activity like chewing and respiration altogether produce a typical input force of 23.65 N which is sufficient to electrocute the incoming virus without causing any hazard to human health.